Health minister, manufacturers meet to review drugs shortages

The Greek agency for pharmaceuticals (EOF), wholesalers, pharmacies and others met on Monday with Health Minister Thanos Plevris to review the issue of lack of drug availability in the Greek market.

While all cited global issues in medicine shortages, they also said the issue was not as severe as in other countries since Greece has its own production of pharmaceuticals as well.

Measures already introduced and reviewed at the meeting include the restriction of exports in medication that is in short supply in Greece, continuing the checks on wholesalers to ensure the exports are not going ahead with medications needed in Greece and that they have enough stock for the Greek market, particularly for fever-reducing drugs and for children's medication. Fines are restricted to shutdown by the government for export violations.

Other measures include the increase of...